Today's cars, light trucks, and sport-utility vehicles are high-tech marvels with digital dashboards, oxygen sensors, electronic computers, unibody construction, and more. They run better, longer, and more efficiently than models of years past. But with all of the new technology and complicated systems, things can get pretty confusing. Our great staff is trained to help you make sense of everything and take the frustrations out of your auto service and repair experience. The following tips should help you along the way:
Do your homework before taking your vehicle in for repairs or service.
- Read the owner's manual to learn about the vehicle's systems and components.
- Follow the recommended service schedules.
- Keep a log of all repairs and service.
- We have a very knowledgeable staff that can answer any questions that you may have.
When you think about it, you know your car better than anyone else. You drive it every day and know how it feels and sounds when everything is right. So don't ignore its warning signals.
Use all of your senses to inspect your car frequently. Check for:
- Unusual sounds, odors, drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights, gauge readings.
- Changes in acceleration, engine performance, gas mileage, fluid levels.
- Worn tires, belts, hoses.
- Problems in handling, braking, steering, vibrations.
- Note when the problem occurs.
- Is it constant or periodic?
- When the vehicle is cold or after the engine has warmed up?
- At all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?
- When did the problem first start?
Once you are at our location, communicate your findings.
Stay involved. . . Ask questions.
- Ask as many questions as you need. Do not be embarrassed to request lay definitions. There is no such thing as a bad question. You work hard for your money, you deserve to get answers that you understand and are comfortable with.
- Don't rush the technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis, he/she needs time to perform diagnostic testing thoroughly and correctly. You may ask to be called and apprised of the problem, course of action, and costs before work begins. We will never perform additional services or repairs without your approval first.
- Before you leave, be sure you understand all shop policies regarding labor charges, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.
- Leave a telephone number where you can be called and what times that you will be available.